DARDANELLE — The Dardanelle Chamber of Commerce appointed a new executive director last month.

The Chamber named Tanya Hendrix its executive director on Dec. 10.

Hendrix, 49, found out about the appointment as she and her sister were about to leave on a birthday trip to London, England.

"I was very pleased when I got the news," Hendrix said.

Hendrix is a Russellville native who graduated Russellville High School in 1983. She has been a Dardanelle Chamber of Commerce board member for three years.

She previously acted as the Chamber's first vice president for nearly a year in 2013 before being selected as director.

"I attended all the events for the past three years," Hendrix said. "I love to plan, love to entertain and love bringing the community together."

Hendrix can put those passions to good use in her new role.

As executive director, she will be in charge of event planning, scheduling and inviting people to visit the Yell County area.

"Community involvement is very important," Hendrix said. "My goal is to continue the growth in this area and continue to focus on community involvement."

One of her first tasks as director will be overseeing the Chamber's annual banquet on Jan. 27 at the Dardanelle Community Center.

"I'm very excited," she said. "James Lee Witt is the guest speaker and he's so well-known in this area. We're recommending people purchase tickets in advance. We expect a big turnout."

Tickets to the event are $25 in advance, which can be purchased at the Chamber, or $30 at the door.

The Chamber continues to restructure following Hendrix's appointment. Celia Carter, previously the second vice president, moved up to president. The board voted Wednesday to fill two empty board seats, but the new board members names haven't been released to the public as of Thursday.